How To...Care for Your Cast-Iron Skillet

When you get a brand new cast-iron skillet or pot, you MUST season it before use. This "seasoning" creates a natural, non-stick surface to the pan and prevents it from rusting. How to Season:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. Begin by smoothing a handful of shortening (Crisco) all over your skillet, and I really mean ALL OVER (top, bottom, sides, handle, everywhere!!).
3. Place your skillet on a baking sheet that has been covered with a piece of foil (for easy clean up). Bake the skillet for about 20-25 minutes.
4. Carefully, remove the skillet from the oven, drain off any extra grease, and place it back onto the baking sheet- except this time place it upside down. Bake it for 1 1/2 hours.
5. Do not remove the skillet from the oven after the time is up-just turn the oven off and let the oven cool naturally inside.
6. Now your skillet has been seasoned!

Maintaining Your Skillet:

Clean your pain when it is still warm/hot, but do not use soap (I know this sounds weird, but you don't want to clean off all the "seasoning"). Just gently brushy off food particles under warm water.

Good Tips for Your Skillet:

• DO NOT boil water in your cast iron skillet, or else it will start to rust
• Designate one specific kitchen towel for your cast-iron, as it can leave smudges and stains on your towels.
• With good care, your cast-iron can last a lifetime!
• Store your cast-iron in a cool, dry place.